407 ETR Invests in Indigenous Youth at 50th LNHL Tournament

Author:

Anastasia Petkov

|Published: March 14th, 2024

407 ETR staff celebrated alongside participants at the Angus Glen Community Centre in Markham, marking the conclusion of the 50th Annual Little Native Hockey League (LNHL) Tournament.

With over 3,500 young Indigenous athletes taking part, the four-day event has become one of Canada's largest of its kind, featuring a gala, player induction ceremony, and an opening day festival for 245 teams across Ontario.

Javier Tamargo, President & CEO of 407 ETR, expressed pride in the company's involvement: "We're honored to expand our Keep MovingTM family to include the Little Native Hockey League. This tournament underscores the importance of teamwork, respect, and education. We're thrilled to celebrate its 50th year and support the talented Indigenous athletes who will undoubtedly carry these values forward as future leaders."

Chico Ralf, 2024 President of the Little Native Hockey League, commended 407 ETR's contribution: "As the LNHL continues to grow, we're delighted to see corporations like 407 ETR step up to champion and empower young people through sports. This funding brings us closer to our goal of breaking down barriers and providing First Nations youth with opportunities to play and learn valuable life skills in a positive environment."

Mayor Frank Scarpitti of Markham echoed these sentiments: "Hosting the 50th Little Native Hockey League Tournament, Cultural Festival, and Gala Celebration has been a tremendous honor for the City of Markham.

Thanks to the generosity of donors like 407 ETR, Indigenous athletes have the chance to thrive and excel on the ice, representing their communities with pride."

Fast facts about 407 ETR's support for Indigenous communities in the GTA

In February, 407 ETR sponsored $10,000 to Trent University's 48th Annual Elders and Traditional Peoples Gathering.
Over 1,500 participants, including Elders, knowledge holders, community members, students, and allies, came together at the Peterborough and Durham campuses.
The events focused on land-based learning and cultural connection through teaching, performance arts, and traditional foods.
407 ETR also donated $15,000 to the Indigenous Friends Association, aiming to reduce education and employment gaps for Indigenous Peoples in the tech sector.
The company sponsored the virtual learning program INDIGital, which offers Indigenous Peoples free online learning about digital literacy, community, and empowerment.
407 ETR has long been a sponsor of the Credit Valley Conservation Foundation, committing $50,000 this year to help Credit Valley Conservation complete a 100-kilometer pathway through the Credit River Watershed.
This includes the construction of the Crane Gathering Space at Island Lake Conservation Area, the first of seven key Indigenous cultural sites along the trail.